EXCLUSIVE: Manoj Bajpayee on staying relevant in Bollywood since 30 years: I refused to be boxed

Manoj Bajpayee is no less than a chameleon when it comes to his on screen personas. The actor effortlessly transforms into his roles leaving the audience awestruck every time. He has been doing that for the last 30 years and with his next, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, he is continuing that. Before its release, Manoj Bajpayee got into an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Bubble where he reflected on his 3 decades in Bollywood.

30 years of Manoj Bajpayee in Bollywood

Soon, Manoj Bajpayee will complete 30 years in Bollywood. When asked if, during this while, there has been a role that has stayed with him for long, the actor answered in the affirmative. He said, “Yes, many times because I have been choosing those kind of films. Films which were not what we call commercial, what were not formula. Films which had me experimenting with the genre, story and in many other ways. Most of my films have never let me sleep well. But this is what I enjoy the most. I enjoy the tough path and I enjoy working against the obstacles and the odds. When I get it really right, it gives me happiness like a child. I think this is what I work for.”

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Manoj on taking the tough path

However, taking the tough path has its price to pay. Talking of that, Manoj shared, “The price is I don’t remain very extrovert. It actually push you more and more into a shell. It’s a thing that you are born with that curse. Once you know that you are born with that curse, because you like it this way, than you are ready to accept it. I accept the fact that because of me taking those roles that much seriously, my preparations that much seriously, the injuries and bruises each character leaves you with, are hard to get rid of. They are somewhere but I am happy.”

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Manoj on being put in a box by the industry

But has being that way made people put him in a box? When asked that, Manoj answered in the negatory. He said, “Not really. I think that I am the only blessed one who has not only done various kind of roles and genre, but also someone who refused to be in a box.”

Over the years, Manoj has given some unforgettable performances with Satya, Shool, Aligarh, The Family Man, Bhonsle, to name a few. His filmography boasts of excellence and knowing his approach, it’s clear why. Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai starts streaming on Zee5 from May 23, 2023.

Watch the entire conversation with Manoj Bajpayee here:

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee confirms, NO Gangs of Wasseypur 3 happening

Nawaz Kochra

Nawaz Kochra has been an experienced journalist in the entertainment arena for the last 9 years. Worked with the biggest brands in the media fraternity, he now heads the editorial desk at Bollywood Bubble. In addition to that, he even hosts a podcast called, Let’s Talk with Bollywood Bubble. Someone who is calm, yet a firecracker, and holds a balanced opinion about things, Nawaz is strong-headed and determined. He loves films as well as web shows and TV (yes, he is from that generation!), and that’s why writing about them is more of a passion for him than just a job.